The largest boat show in New England and the 'kick-off' to the fall boat show season, the Newport International Boat Show provides visitors from around the world a venue to see the latest boats and product offerings from hundreds of manufacturers and dealers, including dozens debuting for the first time in the United States. Set along historic Newport Harbor in the heart of downtown Newport, Rhode Island, the Show also offers a wealth of both fun and educational activities for boating enthusiasts of all ages and experience.

The Show's 2018 charitable partner, United States Power Squadrons – America's Boating Club, will lend its expertise in marine education by offering free seminars on weather and boating technology. The organization, known for its courses that enhance a boater's knowledge and skills while emphasizing having fun on the water, will offer five free, hour-long seminars several times each day. Seminars are located at the Newport Blues Café, across the street from the boat show entrance.

Additionally, Confident Captain's At The Helmprogram will provide hands-on training courses for new boaters or those wanting to improve their skills and confidence level. Several courses are available for power boaters and sail boaters throughout the weekend.

Visitors can embark on an exciting sailing excursion aboard the educational 200-foot Tall Ship SSV Oliver Hazard Perry from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on all Show days. The ship, docked at Fort Adams State Park, will also offer deck tours on Sunday, September 16th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free parking is available at Fort Adams. Visit here for more details.

The Show's annual Newport for New Products (NFNP) Awards Program will feature an innovative line-up of new boats and products making their U.S. or world premiere. Products will feature the NFNP decal and burgees for easy identification. Thursday visitors to the Show will have the opportunity to cast their vote online for the NFNP People's Choice Award. One voter will be selected at random to win a $250 American Express Gift Card. Overall NFNP winners will be announced on Friday morning in the categories of: Best New Sailboat, Powerboat and Best New Products for Navigation and Safety. The Edson Star Award, also announced on Friday morning, will honor exhibitors with the best displays.

The Newport Brokerage Boat Show, held concurrently with the Newport International Boat Show, continues to provide the largest collection of high quality brokerage yachts on display north of South Florida. With over 100 vessels from 60 to 185-feet on display this year, attendees are sure to ?nd something of interest. Continuous water shuttle service connects these shows by water and gives a stunning perspective of the yachts on display.

On Saturday, September 15th from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. in The Bohlin Tent, Jerome Rand will present his story of Sailing Into Oblivion – his 271-day, single-handed voyage around the world on his 32 foot Westsail, Mighty Sparrow. Rand is a Michigan native and Bitter End Yacht Club's beloved watersports director. His presentation is free to show attendees. Rand will also be available for a daily meet and greet and rum tasting at the Bitter End Rambler from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. located on The Bohlin Patio.

On-site concessions have been relocated to North Commercial Wharf near the Show office. Food options include Boss Man Burgers & Fries, The Newport Lobster Shack and The Pizza Gourmet. In addition, Flat Waves Food Shack will be serving up tacos and acai bowls on The Bohlin Patio.

On Saturday from Noon to 3 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the lovely and talented Sailor Donna will entertain children with singing, face painting and balloon art.

For more information on the 2018 Newport International Boat Show, and to purchase tickets, please visit newportboatshow.com.